1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Isuzu Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Isuzu Gemini would be higher. At 1,816 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (120 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Isuzu Gemini is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Isuzu Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Volvo S40 (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (162 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volvo |
| Model | Gemini | S40 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1816 cc | 1798 cc |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
